Indian chopper in Pak; sent back

Source :

Last Updated: Sun, Oct 23, 2011 17:22 hrs

New Delhi, Oct 23 (IBNS) An Indian Army chopper with four soldiers on board that strayed into Pakistan airspace Sunday along the Kashmir border in Kargil sector was taken into custody by Pakistan army, but the matter was soon resolved amicably and the chopper was allowed to fly back home.

The chopper, a Cheetah, which had strayed 20 km into Pakistan territory, was escorted down by the Pakistan army first in the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) region.

After investigations Pakistan was satisfied and released the chopper and its crew members. It reached back India safely.

"The directors generals of military operations of two sides spoke and agreed upon sending back the chopper in Indian territory," said Pakistan army spokesperson Major General Athar Abbas.

He said the matter was resolved by the two sides and the chopper would land in Indian territory anytime soon.

He said there are always investigations upon such violations.

The foreign ministries and high commissions of the two sides were also in touch.

The landing had occurred in the Kargil sector and Indian Army said the landing was not deliberate, but forced by bad weather.

All four soldiers who were in Pakistan custody were interrogated, but every ended in an amicable note.

The Pakistan Army spokesperson had said they were safe and in safe custody and later he confirmed that the chopper was allowed to fly back in India.

India has thanked Pakistan for its cooperation and quick release of the chopper, media reports said.